The federal government is moving forward with legislation to regulate social media, proposing amendments to the PECA Act 2016 to establish the Digital Rights Protection Authority. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has endorsed the creation of this authority through amendments to the PECA Act.
The Cabinet’s Legal Reforms Committee put forth the amended bill, seeking input from the Ministry of IT, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and other stakeholders. Under these proposed changes, the Digital Rights Authority would fall under the Ministry of IT and Telecom’s jurisdiction, advising the government on digital rights matters and ensuring responsible internet usage while enforcing regulations. Additionally, it would collaborate with social media platforms to foster a positive digital environment.
The envisioned Digital Rights Authority would oversee online content and investigate social media law violations, taking action against offenders under the new PECA law. It would have the authority to summon individuals and witnesses involved in digital rights breaches and establish regulations to enforce digital rights laws.
The bill outlining the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority will undergo review by the federal cabinet before being presented to Parliament. Upon approval by Parliament and the President of Pakistan, the authority will be instituted within the Ministry of IT and Telecom.
This development follows the recent issuance of a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) by the Ministry of IT concerning the establishment of the National Cybercrime Investigation Authority.
